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Best Halloween Ends Review
The final chapter. The ultimate showdown. The conclusion (supposedly) to a 44-year-old saga. *Halloween Ends* had a lot riding on it. After the divisive *Halloween Kills*, fans were cautiously optimistic, hoping for a satisfying resolution to the story of Laurie Strode and Michael Myers. Does it deliver? Well, that’s complicated. This review will delve deep into the film, exploring its strengths, weaknesses, and ultimately, whether it sticks the landing.
A Bold Departure or a Fatal Misstep?
One of the most significant criticisms leveled against *Halloween Ends* is its unexpected shift in focus. The film dedicates a substantial portion of its runtime to a new character, Corey Cunningham, a young man ostracized and demonized by the Haddonfield community after a tragic accident. Corey’s arc, which sees him descend into darkness and embrace a Michael Myers-esque persona, feels both thematically interesting and structurally jarring. On one hand, exploring the cyclical nature of evil and the way trauma can warp individuals is a compelling idea. It suggests that Michael Myers is not merely a man, but a symbol of the darkness that festers within Haddonfield itself, a darkness that can infect others. The film attempts to illustrate how fear, judgment, and societal rejection can breed monsters, echoing the original film’s exploration of the banality of evil.
However, this shift in focus comes at the expense of the promised final confrontation between Laurie and Michael. Many viewers felt shortchanged by the limited screen time devoted to this iconic rivalry. While Jamie Lee Curtis delivers a powerful and nuanced performance as a hardened, yet still vulnerable, Laurie Strode, her scenes with Michael feel rushed and anticlimactic. The build-up to their final battle lacks the sustained tension and dread that characterized previous installments. It’s as if the filmmakers were more interested in exploring new thematic ground than delivering a satisfying conclusion to the central conflict. Whether this constitutes a bold artistic choice or a fatal misstep depends largely on individual expectations and willingness to embrace a non-traditional horror narrative. The film undeniably takes risks, and for some, those risks pay off, offering a thought-provoking commentary on the nature of evil. For others, it’s a frustrating betrayal of the core elements that made the *Halloween* franchise so enduring.
Corey Cunningham: A Necessary Evil?
The character of Corey Cunningham is undoubtedly the most controversial aspect of *Halloween Ends*. His storyline dominates a significant portion of the film, leaving many viewers wondering if they were watching a *Halloween* movie or an entirely different horror film. Is Corey a compelling character in his own right? Arguably, yes. Rohan Campbell delivers a convincing performance as a troubled young man driven to violence by societal pressures and personal trauma. His descent into darkness is believable and even sympathetic at times. The film explores themes of isolation, bullying, and the corrupting influence of fear, making Corey a surprisingly relatable, albeit unsettling, character.
However, the fundamental problem lies in the context. The *Halloween* franchise has always been about the dynamic between Laurie Strode and Michael Myers. Introducing a completely new character and diverting so much attention to his story feels like a narrative detour, especially in what is supposed to be the final installment. Some argue that Corey serves as a thematic mirror to Michael, highlighting the idea that evil can take root in anyone. Others view him as a distraction, a poorly executed attempt to inject new life into a tired franchise. Ultimately, Corey’s presence either elevates the film with its thematic depth or detracts from the core narrative and perceived purpose.
The Strode-Myers Showdown: Was It Worth the Wait?
After 44 years, numerous sequels, and countless near-death experiences, the final confrontation between Laurie Strode and Michael Myers finally arrives in *Halloween Ends*. But does it live up to the hype? The answer is a resounding…maybe. The battle itself is brutal and visceral, showcasing the raw physicality of both characters. Laurie, now a grandmother and a hardened survivor, fights with a ferocity born of decades of trauma. Michael, though aged and weakened, remains a terrifying force of nature. The choreography is impactful, and the tension is palpable, particularly in the moments leading up to the climax. However, the brevity of the showdown leaves something to be desired. After all the build-up, the actual fight feels surprisingly short, almost as if the filmmakers were eager to move on to the next scene.
Furthermore, the manner in which Michael is ultimately defeated has sparked considerable debate. Without giving away spoilers, the film’s ending feels somewhat unceremonious and lacks the emotional resonance that many fans were hoping for. Some view it as a realistic portrayal of the aging process and the diminishing power of evil. Others find it anticlimactic and unsatisfying, feeling that Michael deserved a more spectacular and definitive demise. Regardless of one’s personal opinion, it’s undeniable that the Strode-Myers showdown in *Halloween Ends* is a polarizing element of the film. It’s a culmination of decades of storytelling, yet it somehow manages to feel both epic and underwhelming at the same time.
A Legacy Etched in Blood and Uncertainty
The ending of *Halloween Ends*, and the saga as a whole, is intended to be definitive. The film attempts to provide closure for Laurie Strode and the town of Haddonfield, suggesting that the cycle of violence has finally been broken. But, in the world of horror, nothing is ever truly over. The masked killer is gone but the themes of the film speak to trauma, fear and the societal failings that allow evil to flourish.
Technical Aspects: A Return to Form?
One area where *Halloween Ends* generally succeeds is in its technical execution. The cinematography is striking, employing atmospheric lighting and dynamic camera angles to create a sense of unease and suspense. The score, composed by John Carpenter, Cody Carpenter, and Daniel Davies, effectively evokes the classic *Halloween* sound while also incorporating new and unsettling elements. The pacing, however, is a subject of debate. The film takes its time building up the atmosphere and developing the character of Corey Cunningham, which may frustrate viewers expecting a more action-packed slasher film.
The special effects are generally well-done, particularly in the fight sequences between Laurie and Michael. The violence is visceral and impactful, but not gratuitous. The film avoids relying too heavily on CGI, opting for practical effects that enhance the sense of realism and brutality. In terms of sound design, *Halloween Ends* is a masterclass in creating tension and dread. The use of silence, coupled with jarring sound effects, effectively amplifies the scares and keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. Overall, the technical aspects of the film are a significant improvement over *Halloween Kills*, contributing to a more immersive and unsettling viewing experience.
Comparing Technical Aspects Across the Trilogy
Here’s a table comparing the technical aspects of the latest Halloween trilogy:
| Aspect | Halloween (2018) | Halloween Kills (2021) | Halloween Ends (2022) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cinematography | Stylish and atmospheric | Gritty and chaotic | Atmospheric and deliberate |
| Score | Classic Carpenter sound with modern twists | Aggressive and intense | Classic Carpenter sound with unsettling new elements |
| Pacing | Well-paced and suspenseful | Fast-paced and action-oriented | Slower and more deliberate |
| Special Effects | Mostly practical, well-executed | Over-the-top and sometimes CGI-heavy | Mostly practical, well-executed |
| Sound Design | Effective and suspenseful | Loud and overwhelming | Effective and unsettling |
Thematic Resonance: Exploring the Nature of Evil
*Halloween Ends* delves into the nature of evil, exploring how trauma and societal pressures can create monsters. The film suggests that Michael Myers is not just a man, but a symbol of the darkness that resides within the town of Haddonfield. This darkness can infect others, turning ordinary people into killers. The character of Corey Cunningham serves as a prime example of this, demonstrating how fear, judgment, and societal rejection can breed violence.
The film also examines the cyclical nature of violence, suggesting that the cycle can only be broken through forgiveness and healing. Laurie Strode’s journey is one of resilience and redemption, as she learns to overcome her trauma and find peace. The ending, while controversial, suggests that the town of Haddonfield can finally heal from the horrors of Michael Myers. This thematic depth adds a layer of complexity to the film, elevating it beyond a simple slasher flick. Whether these themes resonate with viewers depends on their willingness to engage with the film on a deeper level. For some, the thematic exploration is a welcome addition to the franchise. For others, it feels like a forced attempt to add meaning to a series that is primarily known for its scares.
The Cycle of Violence: Breaking the Chain
The theme of breaking the cycle of violence is central to *Halloween Ends*. The film suggests that the only way to defeat evil is to confront it head-on and to break the chain of trauma that perpetuates it. Laurie Strode’s character arc embodies this theme, as she learns to forgive herself and to move on from the past. The ending, while divisive, suggests that the town of Haddonfield can finally heal from the horrors of Michael Myers. This message of hope and resilience is a powerful one, and it adds a layer of depth to the film that goes beyond simple scares.
Conclusion: A Divisive but Ultimately Thought-Provoking Finale
*Halloween Ends* is a film that will undoubtedly divide audiences. Its unexpected plot twists, controversial character choices, and ambiguous ending are sure to spark debate among fans. However, beneath the surface of the horror lies a thought-provoking exploration of trauma, societal pressures, and the nature of evil. Whether you love it or hate it, *Halloween Ends* is a film that will stay with you long after the credits roll.
It’s a film that is bold and challenging, even if the result doesn’t fully satisfy everyone’s expectations. Its strengths lie in the performances, cinematography, and thematic depth. Its weaknesses lie in the pacing, the focus on Corey Cunningham, and the controversial ending. Ultimately, *Halloween Ends* is a fitting, if imperfect, conclusion to a legendary horror franchise.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Was Michael Myers actually weakened in *Halloween Ends*?
Yes, the film makes it clear that Michael Myers is not the unstoppable force he once was. He’s aged, injured, and has seemingly lost some of his strength and agility. This is a deliberate choice by the filmmakers, reflecting the passage of time and the toll that decades of violence have taken on both Laurie and Michael. His power seems to draw from the fear he instills in others, which is one reason he connects with Corey, who is consumed by fear and anger. He is more of a symbol than a physical threat this time around. It makes sense thematically, given the film’s exploration of the nature of evil, but it is a major departure from how the character has typically been portrayed.
Why did *Halloween Ends* focus so much on Corey Cunningham?
The decision to dedicate a significant portion of the film to Corey Cunningham is one of the most controversial aspects of *Halloween Ends*. The filmmakers wanted to explore the idea that evil can take root in anyone, and that trauma and societal pressures can turn ordinary people into monsters. Corey serves as a thematic mirror to Michael Myers, highlighting the cyclical nature of violence and the way fear can corrupt individuals. He represents the potential for evil that exists within the town of Haddonfield, suggesting that Michael is not the only source of darkness. By focusing on Corey, the film attempts to elevate itself beyond a simple slasher flick and explore deeper themes about the human condition. However, many viewers felt that this shift in focus detracted from the promised final confrontation between Laurie and Michael, and that Corey’s storyline was a distraction from the core narrative.
Is *Halloween Ends* really the end of the franchise?
In the world of horror, nothing is ever truly over. While *Halloween Ends* is billed as the final chapter in the Laurie Strode-Michael Myers saga, it’s highly unlikely that this is the last we’ll see of the *Halloween* franchise. The series is too iconic and too profitable for Hollywood to abandon it completely. The film provides a definitive ending to the story of Laurie and Michael but it deliberately leaves the door open for future installments. It’s possible that future films could focus on new characters and storylines, or they could reboot the franchise altogether. Only time will tell what the future holds for *Halloween*, but one thing is certain: Michael Myers will likely return to terrorize audiences once again.
Did the movie have a negative impact on Jamie Lee Curtis’ career?
No, *Halloween Ends* did not have a negative impact on Jamie Lee Curtis’s career. While the film received mixed reviews, Curtis’s performance was widely praised, and she has continued to thrive in Hollywood. In fact, around the time of the film’s release, Curtis was experiencing a career resurgence, with acclaimed performances in films like *Knives Out* and *Everything Everywhere All at Once*. The negative reception of *Halloween Ends* was more directed at the writing and directorial choices than at Curtis’s acting. She has solidified her status as a horror icon and a versatile actress, and her career remains strong regardless of how fans felt about the movie.
What were the main criticisms of *Halloween Ends*?
The main criticisms of *Halloween Ends* centered around its unexpected plot twists, controversial character choices, and ambiguous ending. Many viewers were disappointed by the film’s focus on Corey Cunningham, feeling that it detracted from the promised final confrontation between Laurie and Michael. The pacing was also criticized, with some viewers finding the film too slow and deliberate. The ending, in particular, was divisive, with some feeling that it was unsatisfying and anticlimactic. Other criticisms included the lack of scares and the film’s deviation from the traditional slasher formula. Essentially, many viewers felt that *Halloween Ends* was too different from what they expected, and that it failed to deliver a satisfying conclusion to the saga.
How does *Halloween Ends* compare to other Halloween movies?
*Halloween Ends* is a significant departure from most other *Halloween* movies, particularly in its focus on character development and thematic exploration. Unlike many of the sequels, which primarily focus on Michael Myers’s relentless pursuit of his victims, *Halloween Ends* delves into the psychological impact of trauma and the cyclical nature of violence. It also introduces a new character, Corey Cunningham, who plays a central role in the story. This makes *Halloween Ends* a more complex and nuanced film than some of its predecessors. However, it also makes it more divisive, as some viewers feel that it deviates too far from the traditional slasher formula. Whether it’s a successful experiment or a misstep depends largely on individual taste and expectations.
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(as of Sep 10, 2025 11:40:20 UTC – Details)
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